LDV has already used the Maxus brand for some markets, after its acquisition by Chinese manufacturer SAIC in 2009. Since 2015, Dublin-based Harris Group has been the exclusive distributor for LDV in the UK, Ireland and right-hand-drive markets in Europe, and it will also adopt the Maxus branding from April.
The rebrand coincides with the launch of two new models: the Deliver 9 and the all-electric E Deliver 3. The E Deliver 3 was first unveiled at last year’s CV Show as the EV30, and will be available to order later this month.
While full details of the Deliver 9 have yet to be announced, it will have a 2.0-litre engine and will be available in a choice of three lengths, three heights and as front- or rear-wheel drive.
Denis Harris, CEO of The Harris Group, says: “As the Maxus brand grows, both in China and across Europe, and with more and more models and variants being introduced to the market, it makes sense for us to align with the global Maxus brand.
“As a company and main distributor, we are really excited to be part of this evolution and I think that our enhanced offering will inject new life into the LCV market.”
Mark Barrett, general manager of Maxus UK and Ireland, says: “Until now, LDV has been known as a challenger brand and I believe that this year will see Maxus emerge as a leading, premium mainstream brand that will deliver on spec, quality, technology and price.
“We will continue to offer our class-leading, five-year 125,000miles /200,000km warranty on all new diesel vehicles, which sets us apart from many other manufacturers. And when it comes to EVs, we are able to offer a range of body variants that others can’t yet match.”